Hi Mr X
I am so fortunate to had you as my math 10 teacher . I still remember that, I wasn’t the most bright kid in the class;and I made so many nonsense mistake in the assignment all the time. However, every assignment that I got back from you had your commons like “you are a smart boy!” or “ you can be better than Gauss!” or something like “you are a genius!!!”.
At that time, I truly believed you, so I have never given up on myself.I just got my master degree on mathematics education(secondary option). Looking back, I would never make it this far without your flatter common. Thank you again.
Best
Student A
Hi Mr X
I can't believe that I am still writing to you after left your math 12 class 10 years ago.I have to admit that you are not the best teacher I have ever had.I still remember that you kept us doing super difficult problems all the time that just turned me off as I never wanted to become a mathematician any way.Looking back, I still think that you were too unrealistic at the time and pushed me towards the direction which clearly doesn't fit me.
Best
Student B
Common:
The above two letters are fictional, however, these letters are my personal remainders when I have my own class. To be a good teacher sometimes simple comes down to always give your students a little encouragement. On the other hand ,being too strict or having unrealistic expectations and learning goal of your student definitely is not a good and effective teacher should do.
Generally good thoughts here, Zhisong. However, I would be VERY cautious about actually making comments on students' work like the following:
ReplyDelete•“you are a smart boy!”
•“ you can be better than Gauss!”
• “you are a genius!!!”
In the Canadian context, it's important to comment on the student's work, rather than flattering the student with a lot of compliments -- I think that students and parents would find the exaggerated comments above quite strange. When you come to writing report card comments and comments on student tests and other work during your long practicum, check what you're writing with your sponsoring teacher to make sure it would be considered appropriate.
I do agree with you that students thrive on encouragement and a feeling of competence!